The season of Summer is officially here, the sun is out and it is making everyone want to stay inside. As joyous and bright this season is, it can get a little too much sometimes and all you want to do is sit in your room with the air-conditioner on. In this article, we will be discussing 10 must try refreshing summer drinks in India that will surely beat the summer blues.
1. Lassi:
We can all agree that Lassi has been the ultimate drink of the summer for ages. From grandparents to young kids, everyone enjoys a cold glass of lassi on a hot summer day. It is creamy and smooth in texture and even manages to keep you full for a long time. This yoghurt based drink originating from North-India is oh so delicious, you can’t hold yourself back after a sip. And if you don’t like regular lassi, it comes in different flavours too! From mango lassi to jeera lassi, you get it all when it comes to this top summer drink of India.
2. Aam Panna:
If you are someone who likes a ‘khatta-meetha’ twist in your desi drink, Aam Panna is perfect for you. This is easily one of the most refreshing and yummy drinks that is enjoyed all around the country. It is a beautiful symphony of raw mango and a variety of spices, giving it the much needed tangy twist. If you don’t wish to do the work of making things yourself, you can get ready-made packets of Aam Panna at your nearest general store. Just add water to a glass along with some ice cubes and empty the packet into your glass. Give it a good mix, and there you have it!
3. Buttermilk:
This summer drink is very simple but works like a charm when it comes to cooling yourself down during a hot summer day. Just like Lassi, this is also a dairy based drink and is made after the milk that is left after churning butter. It’s salty, buttery and leaves you wanting more and more after every sip. Adding to that, this drink is full of probiotics, which helps in soothing digestive problems. So the next time you have a plan to have chole bhature today in this Delhi heat, make sure to get yourself a glass of buttermilk to go along with it.
4. Sharbat:
Sharbat is a versatile drink that comes in various flavours. It is usually fruity and perfect to chill after coming back home from a long day at school or at work. The popular drink RoohAfza that has been quenching the first of Indian people for ages is also a type of Sharbat. For someone who does not like RoohAfza, badam, Sharbat, and Sandalwood Sharbat is also readily available in Indian markets. So what are you waiting for? Go get your hands on your favourite sharbat now!
5. Kokum:
Kokam is also a type of Sharbat and has many antioxidants and herbs that are good for your health. The fruit of Kokam grows in the coastal regions of India and is slowly growing more and more popular everywhere. Kokam also has factors that can help in weight loss. So if you are someone who is watching their weight, a glass of Kokam Sharbat a day will surely keep you energised without the extra calories.
6. Jal Jeera:
Jaljeera is another famous drink, popular among the adults of India. We have usually seen our parents or grandparents have a glass of Jaljeera when they are facing digestive issues. It is full of spices which gives it a sensational aroma. If you find it hard to make Jaljeera at home, it is now available in small bottles in the market at a very low price. For just around ₹10, you can get your hands on a bottle of Jaljeera and cool down on a hot summer day.
7. Thandai:
Thandai is hands down the best festive summer drink of India. It is made with sweetened milk and contains a lot of crushed nuts like almonds, cashews, walnuts, and some saffron for fragrance. It is usually made on the day of Holi, a very popular festival in North India. It keeps you energised throughout the long day of playing Holi with your friends and family.
8. Coconut Water:
This natural drink is full of electrolytes and is readily available everywhere in India. Not only is it naturally sweet and refreshing, it also contains various important nutrients. This drink is packed with calcium, potassium and magnesium, which makes it a great alternative to artificially made energy drinks. After a quick workout session in this summer heat, get yourself a fresh coconut full of water and it will surely recharge your energy.
9. Bel Sharbat:
Bel Sharbat is a very unique drink, extracted from the pulp of bel (wood apples). It has a very distinct taste; a mix of tangy and sweet flavours that makes your taste buds dance! Not only that, this drink like many others also has digestive properties. So for someone who has problems with digestion, pair this drink with your meal and you will be relieved.
10. Sattu:
Sattu is a simple yet unique drink, but not many of us must have heard of. It is made by mixing a powder made of roasted gram flour along with some water, sugar and some lemon juice. Sattu is full of fibre, protein and vitamins, making it refreshing and good for your health too. In this scorching heat, a glass of this drink will relax as well as energise you.
There is no better way to recharge you in this summer heat than with an icy cold drink. I am sure that by the time you’re done reading this, you will be craving one yourself!